Blisters are one of the most common and irksome foot ailments that people experience. Who would have thought that something so seemingly small and harmless could cause such discomfort?
Whether you’re an athlete striving for peak performance or your job keeps you on your feet all day, blisters are the last thing you want to deal with. This is why understanding what causes them and how you may be able to prevent them is essential.
The passionate team at Foot Health Clinic has more than 29 years of experience in the provision of skilled foot care. Located in Samford Village, we have a special interest in kids, family, and active adventurers’ podiatry. Get in touch with our helpful team for more information.
What are Blisters?
A blister is a small bubble of fluid (usually clear) that forms under the top layer of skin as a result of friction. As such, they are common on the feet.
Persistent rubbing in the same spot stretches the skin and creates tears between the layers, which then fill with fluid. This fluid forms a protective cushion, defending the dermis layer of skin from further damage and giving it a chance to heal.
It is also possible to develop a blood blister, which, as its name suggests, is a blister that is filled with blood (usually the result of a hard knock that damages blood vessels).
While most blisters don’t need treatment and will heal naturally, they may cause discomfort and even burst or become infected.
What Causes Blisters?
The most common cause of foot blisters is usually repeated friction or pressure (particularly between the skin and footwear). Ill-fitting shoes are a common culprit, as are new shoes that haven’t been worn in, while having moist and sweaty feet can exacerbate the issue. Having a foot condition, like bunions, may also make you more prone to developing a blister in that area.
Conditions That Resemble Blisters
Other conditions and illnesses may result in skin lesions on the feet that resemble friction blisters. These include:
- Infections (such as impetigo)
- Contact dermatitis or eczema
- Diseases (such as chickenpox or hand, foot, and mouth disease)
- Insect bites or stings
- Scalds or burns
- Sunburn
- Frostbite
- Chillblains
- Allergies
- Fungal skin infections
While these conditions may also cause blister-like symptoms, they are not the same as friction blisters and should not be treated as such. If you suspect you have one of these conditions, be sure to seek medical advice
Can Blisters be Prevented?
While blisters are sometimes unavoidable (particularly those caused by disease or infection), there are steps you may wish to take to potentially help prevent those caused by friction:
- Wear comfortable, well-fitted shoes with ample toe room
- Choose shoes made from breathable materials (like mesh or leather)
- Avoid shoes that rub (seams and rough areas are notorious for this)
- Avoid wearing new shoes for long periods
- Wear shoes that are designed for the activity you are performing
- Wear moisture-wicking socks (to help keep your feet dry)
- Wear double-layered socks or socks with built-in cushioning
- Change your socks regularly (especially during extended activity)
- Wear socks with shoes where possible
- Regularly inspect your feet for hot spots (these may be early signs of a blister forming)
- Moisturise your feet regularly (to potentially prevent cracks and calluses from forming)
If you are prone to blisters, applying a blister prevention product (such as a lubricant or self-adhesive bandage) to the most affected areas may also help.
Athletes and those who engage in high-impact activities should take additional steps to prevent blisters:
- Choose athletic shoes that are correctly fitted and provide adequate support and cushioning
- Apply anti-friction products or blister prevention patches
- Gradually increase activity levels
- Allow your feet time to adapt to new footwear and equipment
- Lubricating your feet before running
What Do I Do for Persistent Blisters?
If you take all relevant precautions and still find yourself experiencing persistent blister issues, it may be beneficial to consult with a podiatrist. They should be able to provide an in-depth evaluation of your feet and offer personalised advice on how to combat this issue (such as the use of custom orthotics, footwear optimisation and teflon patches).
Address Foot Blisters with Foot Health Clinic
While blisters are a common foot ailment, particularly among athletes and those who spend a lot of time on their feet, understanding the cause and taking precautionary measures may significantly reduce your risk.
If you have developed a foot blister, proper care is important for optimal healing. Be sure to seek medical attention if the blister worsens, becomes infected, or if you have an underlying health issue. The dedicated team of podiatrists in Brisbane’s northside at Foot Health Clinic is here to provide professional advice and support.
